What can my baby say?

It is very exciting for parents to watch their babies become social beings that can interact with others. Every baby develops speech at his or her own rate, but these are some of the common milestones in this age group:

Coos and gurgles when talked to, or in response to toys

Babbles, imitates sounds

By 6 months, makes single syllable sounds (da, ma, ba)

Laughs

Squeals

Blows bubbles or "raspberries"

What does my baby understand?

A baby's awareness of people and surroundings increases during this time and he or she may start to interact with people other than parents. Babies may progress at different rates, but these are some of the common milestones in this age group:

Recognizes familiar things and people

May hold out arms to be picked up

Begins to learn concept of object permanence (such as a partially hidden object under a blanket is still there)

May show displeasure when object or person goes away

May recognize his or her own name

May start to understand "no"

Starts to understand cause and effect (the sound a toy makes when it is dropped)

How to help increase your baby's development and emotional security

Consider the following as ways to foster the emotional security of your baby: